Tuesday, August 18, 2009

Google Maps of Sea Level Rises

According to the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), sea levels have been rising about 3 mm per year since 1993 – totalling a 200 mm increase (7.87 inches) in global averaged sea level since 1870.

This Google Map mashup shows how the world will look if it is effected by sea level rises. Unlike other sea-level rise maps that we have seen built on Google Maps this map lets you enter your own levels of rise to see its effect on the world.

Users can enter a number of inches and the map will show what areas would be flooded or at risk and the left side bar displays the number of people likely to be flooded. Major cities are displayed on the map with small circular markers. Clicking on the markers gives the current elevation, elevation after sea level rise, and the number and percentage of people losing homes.